Purdy teacher Linda Patton celebrates 10 years as a breast cancer survivor
Patton
October 15, 2014
Charlea Mills
For Purdy Schools teacher Linda Patton, November of this year marks ten years as a breast cancer survivor. Back in 2004, Patton went in for her first mammogram, and by the end of that day, she had already met with her doctor, an oncologist and surgeon to make a plan for the fight for her life.
Looking back, Patton said, “Some of the toughest times of my life were during my fight. Cancer is a daily fight, especially trying to survive the chemo treatments. I truly believe that God only gave me the challenges I could handle.”
Patton was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer, underwent a mastectomy two weeks later and then an additional six months of chemotherapy. Patton said, “My husband and I were in a whirlwind with how fast everything was moving, although it didn’t give us much time to dwell on the situation. I remember being very scared, worried that I wouldn’t get to see my kids grow up. I did a lot of praying.” Thankfully, Patton’s treatments worked and she is still here today, teaching for her 30th year in the Purdy School district.
Since Patton’s diagnosis and treatments, she has worked in the community to bring awareness to breast cancer. Her son, Trenton, held a 5K on the Fourth of July in her honor with all of the proceeds going to the Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks. She has also participated in many races and walks, annual cancer events and also helped raise money for the girls’ basketball team for a Pink Out fundraiser.
Even though Patton’s been cancer-free for years, the memories of her experience help her be thankful for all that she has been through. She said, “I know it made me a stronger person, and I know I appreciate more of the little moments in life.” She continued, “I remember having surgery to have my port put in for chemo treatments. It’s the scar that reminds me of all the challenging times, and also that reminds me of all I am so thankful for.”
Linda and her husband, Stan, will celebrate their 30th anniversary next summer. The pair have lived in Monett, Stan’s hometown, for almost 30 years.
Did you know?
• 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
• Breast cancer can also affect men.
•Smoking and drinking alcohol have been shown to increase the risk for breast cancer.
• A healthy diet, regular exercise and breastfeeding have all been shown to lower cancer risks.
• Women should perform a self breast exam once a month to check for lumps.
Charlea Mills
For Purdy Schools teacher Linda Patton, November of this year marks ten years as a breast cancer survivor. Back in 2004, Patton went in for her first mammogram, and by the end of that day, she had already met with her doctor, an oncologist and surgeon to make a plan for the fight for her life.
Looking back, Patton said, “Some of the toughest times of my life were during my fight. Cancer is a daily fight, especially trying to survive the chemo treatments. I truly believe that God only gave me the challenges I could handle.”
Patton was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer, underwent a mastectomy two weeks later and then an additional six months of chemotherapy. Patton said, “My husband and I were in a whirlwind with how fast everything was moving, although it didn’t give us much time to dwell on the situation. I remember being very scared, worried that I wouldn’t get to see my kids grow up. I did a lot of praying.” Thankfully, Patton’s treatments worked and she is still here today, teaching for her 30th year in the Purdy School district.
Since Patton’s diagnosis and treatments, she has worked in the community to bring awareness to breast cancer. Her son, Trenton, held a 5K on the Fourth of July in her honor with all of the proceeds going to the Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks. She has also participated in many races and walks, annual cancer events and also helped raise money for the girls’ basketball team for a Pink Out fundraiser.
Even though Patton’s been cancer-free for years, the memories of her experience help her be thankful for all that she has been through. She said, “I know it made me a stronger person, and I know I appreciate more of the little moments in life.” She continued, “I remember having surgery to have my port put in for chemo treatments. It’s the scar that reminds me of all the challenging times, and also that reminds me of all I am so thankful for.”
Linda and her husband, Stan, will celebrate their 30th anniversary next summer. The pair have lived in Monett, Stan’s hometown, for almost 30 years.
Did you know?
• 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
• Breast cancer can also affect men.
•Smoking and drinking alcohol have been shown to increase the risk for breast cancer.
• A healthy diet, regular exercise and breastfeeding have all been shown to lower cancer risks.
• Women should perform a self breast exam once a month to check for lumps.
